PRESS RELEASES

MAYOR BILL WHITE SUPPORTS METRO DECISION ON CONTRACT FOR RAPID TRANSIT EXPANSION

January 25, 2007 -- Mayor Bill White today spoke out in support of the Metropolitan Transit Authority's decision to begin negotiations with a contractor for four new transit corridors in Houston.

"I fully support this decision which helps METRO live up to the commitment of providing Houstonians with more rapid transit, sooner rather than later, in a cost-effective manner," said Mayor White. "I respect the recommendations of the transit professionals in making this contract selection. I have confidence in the METRO procurement process. It was handled in an innovative manner, designed to lower costs and create incentives for the contractor to carry out the work in a timely manner. That is effective management and good business."

The four new lines will add approximately 20 miles of rapid transit solutions to North Houston and Southeast Houston, as well as the Uptown and East End areas. The contract also includes a  state-of-the-art "Intermodal Terminal" which  will connect numerous bus, train and other transportation modes at a gateway north of downtown Houston.

METRO expects to break ground on construction in July 2007 and expects completion by 2012. METRO will conduct the construction in stages to reduce disruption to Houston's roadways and businesses.